Traveling Equipment Operator

Ervin Cable Construction; Rapid City (SD); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading company as a Traveling Equipment Operator, where you'll operate specialized machinery for installing phone and internet infrastructure. Enjoy competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth in a supportive, safety-focused environment.

Benefits

Weekly Paychecks

Paid lodging and per diem

Paid Time Off

401(k) with Company Match

Education Reimbursement

Legal Insurance

Qualifications

• Ability to follow instructions and read work orders.
• Experience in construction or utility construction preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate trenching and digging equipment safely.
• Install and maintain underground fiber optic lines.
• Establish safety perimeters and direct traffic.

Skills

Communication

Problem Solving

Safety Awareness

Troubleshooting

Education

Valid CDL

Tools

Small and Hand Tools

Job description

Discover a more connected Equipment Operator career

At TelCom Construction, as a Traveling Equipment Operator, you'll operate and maintain specialized machinery for installing phone and internet infrastructure, ensuring safety and functionality throughout your work.

Connecting you to great benefits

• Weekly Paychecks
• Paid lodging and per diem during overnight travel
• Paid Time Off, Parental Leave, and Holidays
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Stock Purchase Plan
• Education Reimbursement
• Class A CDL Licensure program
• Legal Insurance
• Discounts on gym memberships, pet insurance, and more

Key responsibilities of a Traveling Equipment Operator

• Operate trenching and digging equipment safely on various sites: Plow, Backhoe/Excavator, Rock Saw, Dozer/Lead Tractor, Tractor Trailer (for moving equipment and hauling water)
• Install and maintain underground fiber optic and telecommunications lines
• Restore and landscape disturbed areas
• Dig pits, trenches, and potholes as per job plans, including utility crossings using manual or mechanical tools
• Set up and clean the site
• Load and unload tools, materials, and equipment
• Establish safety perimeters with signage, cones, and barriers, possibly directing traffic

Qualifications

• Ability to follow instructions
• Basic proficiency with small and hand tools
• Ability to read work orders, safety rules, and operating instructions
• Valid CDL with a good driving record
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• High safety awareness
• Effective communication with crew, customers, and vendors
• Willingness to work overtime, including evenings, weekends, or on-call emergencies
• Extended travel required within the Telcom footprint

Preferred qualifications

Experience in construction or utility construction, and ability to interpret utility maps and prints

Physical requirements

• Climb into and out of equipment
• Lift/carry up to 50 lbs regularly and up to 100 lbs as needed
• Perform tasks involving standing, crouching, sitting, bending, and reaching in various conditions
• Work while wearing safety gear
• Potential remote work involving long drives and sitting
• Work in adverse weather conditions, including extreme temperatures and inclement weather

Vision capabilities required include near, far, peripheral, depth perception, and focus adjustment. Exposure to dust, fumes, or airborne pathogens may occur.

Pay Range: $23 - $32 per hour

Why work with us

Your career here offers more than a job — it's a pathway to opportunity. Our hands-on training, supportive environment, and leadership focus on your professional growth. We prioritize safety and foster a diverse, inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.

We are an equal-opportunity employer, committed to a work environment free from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.